Finally! There’s real traction in Congress to simultaneously address the economic stagnation and climate-change-related environmental impacts harming rural and farming communities. It’s the ‘Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act,’ just introduced into both the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate by both Democrats and Republicans. My 2019 New Year’s Resolution is to do everything I can to see this bill become law.

Here’s why: if enacted, every American will receive a monthly dividend from revenue collected by imposition of a gradually increasing price on carbon and greenhouse gas pollution. More money in peoples’ pockets helps everyone, especially those with middle or lower incomes. A price on carbon drives down the pollution causing climate change; and stimulates the job-creating renewable energy sector.

Thanks to the House and Senate sponsors for this bold and warranted Act. In 2019, our Representatives in the House and Senators Gillibrand and Schumer should do the same.